3 Days Marrakech to Fes Morocco Desert Tour

Day 1: Marrakech – Aït Benhaddou – Ouarzazate – Dades Valley

Tizi n’Tichka Pass: Into the Heart of the Atlas Mountains

Your desert adventure starts early from Marrakech, as we drive through the winding roads of the High Atlas Mountains. The route through the Tizi n’Tichka Pass (2,260 meters) offers breathtaking views of remote Berber villages, rugged peaks, and lush valleys. Stops along the way allow for photography and short cultural visits.

Explore Aït Benhaddou Kasbah – UNESCO Treasure

We arrive at the legendary Aït Benhaddou, a fortified ksar recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Known for its stunning earthen architecture and cinematic fame (Gladiator, Game of Thrones), this site offers a walk through Morocco’s rich architectural heritage. Cross the ancient bridge, climb to the top of the village for panoramic views, and capture timeless photographs.

Ouarzazate and Skoura Oasis

After lunch, we continue to Ouarzazate, dubbed the “Hollywood of Africa.” Optional visits include the Atlas Film Studios or the historical Taourirt Kasbah. We then travel through the Skoura Oasis, a palm-filled valley with hidden kasbahs and traditional Berber homes.

Sunset Arrival in Dades Valley

The day ends in the Dades Valley, often called the Valley of a Thousand Kasbahs, known for its dramatic gorges and rock formations. You’ll spend the night in a charming hotel or riad overlooking the valley, enjoying traditional Moroccan cuisine and stunning views.

Day 2: Dades Valley – Todra Gorges – Merzouga – Camel Trek

Todra Gorges: Towering Canyons of the Atlas

After breakfast, we drive through the Dades Gorge and continue to Todra Gorges, a dramatic canyon with cliffs rising over 300 meters. A walk along the riverbed between the high limestone walls is a highlight for nature lovers and photographers alike.

Journey to the Sahara via Erfoud and Rissani

Heading south, we pass through the desert towns of Tinjdad, Erfoud, and Rissani—each offering glimpses into pre-Saharan life, bustling markets, and local traditions. Rissani is particularly notable for its traditional souks and its historic connection to the Alaouite dynasty.

Camel Ride into the Merzouga Dunes

By late afternoon, we reach Merzouga, the gateway to the Erg Chebbi dunes. Here begins your camel trek into the golden sands of the Sahara, led by experienced camel handlers. The silence of the desert, the rhythmic sway of the camel, and the setting sun over the dunes create a surreal, unforgettable experience.

Overnight in a Luxury Desert Camp

Your night is spent in a luxurious Berber desert camp, nestled among the towering dunes. Upon arrival, enjoy Moroccan mint tea and watch the sun dip below the horizon. A delicious Moroccan dinner under the stars is followed by Berber drumming and storytelling by the campfire. You can stargaze into the endless desert sky before retreating to your private tent for a peaceful night.

Day 3: Merzouga – Ziz Valley – Midelt – Ifrane – Fes

Sunrise over Erg Chebbi and Breakfast in Camp

Wake early to catch the sunrise over the dunes, a magical moment as the first rays of light set the sands aglow. After a hearty breakfast in the camp, return by camel or 4×4 to Merzouga and begin the journey northward.

Ziz Valley and Midelt – Through the Middle Atlas

We travel along the Ziz River, passing through a stunning valley of date palms, fortified villages, and dramatic cliffs. After crossing the Tafilalt oasis, we reach Midelt, a town nestled between the Middle and High Atlas Mountains. A lunch break here offers time to rest and enjoy the mountainous scenery.

Ifrane – The Moroccan Switzerland

As we descend toward Fes, we pass through Azrou’s cedar forests, home to Barbary macaques, and reach Ifrane, a pristine alpine town known for its European-style architecture and clean streets. This unexpected stop is a perfect place to stretch and enjoy the crisp mountain air.

Arrival in Fes – End of the Desert Tour

In the late afternoon or early evening, we arrive in Fes, one of Morocco’s most historic and spiritually significant cities. Your driver will drop you off at your accommodation, marking the end of your 3-day Marrakech to Fes desert adventure.

What’s Included in the 3-Day Marrakech to Fes Desert Tour

• Private or small-group transportation in an air-conditioned 4×4 vehicle or minibus

• Professional English-speaking driver/guide

• 2 nights of accommodation (1 in Dades Valley, 1 in a luxury desert camp)

• Camel trek in Merzouga (1 hour each way)

• Dinner and breakfast at both overnight stays

• Guided visit to Aït Benhaddou

• Bottled water, fuel, and all local taxes

Highlights of the 3-Day Desert Tour

• Scenic drive through the Atlas Mountains

• UNESCO Aït Benhaddou Kasbah

• Camel ride through Erg Chebbi dunes

• Night in a Berber desert camp with entertainment

• Dades and Todra Gorges exploration

• Cultural immersion in Berber villages and souks

• Beautiful transition from desert to cedar forests and mountains